|
Use the A-Z list to browse more than 6,000 health-related topics in our library. Clicking on a term opens the definition and, in most cases, links to more information.
Topic Index
- + MD
-
- MD
-
"MD" is more commonly referred to as "Muscular Dystrophy" in the medical community.
Muscular Dystrophy
A genetic muscular disorder characterized by weakness and deterioration of muscle tissue.
More Information on Muscular Dystrophy: Myopathy
- + MDI
-
- MDI
-
Aerosol device that delivers a specific amount of medication to the lungs. It is commonly used to treat asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and other respiratory problems.
More Information on MDI: Allergy & Asthma Drugs
- + MDLS
-
- MDLS
-
"MDLS" is more commonly referred to as "Miller Dieker Syndrome" in the medical community.
Miller Dieker Syndrome
Also Known As: "Classical Lissencephaly, Miller-Dieker Lissencephaly Syndrome, Agyria Syndrome, Agyria Pachygyria Syndrome"
A multiple congenital anomaly/mental retardation (MCA/MR) syndrome that primarily affects the brain. It may also include one or more congenital heart defects such as patent ductus arteriosus or ventricular septal defects.
More Information on Miller Dieker Syndrome: Pediatric Heart
- + MDMA
-
- MDMA
-
"MDMA" is more commonly referred to as "Ecstasy" in the medical community.
Ecstasy
Also Known As: "4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine, Methylenedioxymethamphetamine"
A recreational drug that increases the release of neurotransmitters in the brain, resulting in hallucinations and feelings of ecstasy, euphoria, openness and well-being. Often used as a date-rate drug.
More Information on Ecstasy: Alcohol & Substance Abuse
- + MDS MPD
-
- MDS MPD
-
"MDS MPD" is more commonly referred to as "Myelodysplastic Myeloproliferative Diseases" in the medical community.
Myelodysplastic Myeloproliferative Diseases
Conditions that share properties of both myelodysplastic syndromes (bone marrow does not function normally and can not produce enough blood cells) and myeloproliferative diseases (too may blood cells are produced).
More Information on Myelodysplastic Myeloproliferative Diseases: Leukemia & Bone Cancer
- + ME
-
- ME
-
"ME" is more commonly referred to as "Chronic Fatigue Syndrome" in the medical community.
Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
Also Known As: "Chronic Fatigue and Immune Dysfunction Syndrome, CFIDS, CFS, Postviral Fatigue Syndrome, Myalgic Encephalomyelitis"
Disorder characterized by extreme fatigue that lasts six months or longer, and does not improve with rest or is worsened by physical or mental activity. It is often associated with fibromyalgia and myofascial pain syndrome.
More Information on Chronic Fatigue Syndrome: Energy & Fatigue
- + Meals On Wheels
-
- Meals On Wheels
-
A volunteer-based nonprofit organization that provides nutritious meals to homebound people regardless of age. The goal is to help clients maintain independence and quality of life.
- + Measles
-
- Measles
-
Also Known As: "Rubeola"
A highly contagious viral illness marked by fever, cough, conjunctivitis (irritation in eye membranes) and rash that tends to affect children. While still common worldwide, immunization has made this disorder rare in the United States.
More Information on Measles: Skin Related Infections
- + Meatus
-
- Meatus
-
Also Known As: "Nasal Meatus, Middle Meatus, Nose Meatus, Inferior Meatus, Superior Meatus"
The spaces between the turbinates -- round structures within the outside walls of the nose that run along the length of the nasal cavities. They are named for the turbinates above them (superior, middle and inferior).
More Information on Meatus: Nose & Throat
- + Mechanical Circulatory Support
-
- Mechanical Circulatory Support
-
Also Known As: "Artificial Heart"
There are two types of surgically implanted electrical devices that are considered mechanical hearts. One is the ventricular assist device, which has been approved by the FDA. The other is the total artificial heart, which is still being developed.
More Information on Mechanical Circulatory Support: Heart Failure
- + Mechanical Heart
-
- Mechanical Heart
-
Also Known As: "Artificial Heart, Mechanical Circulatory Support"
There are two types of surgically implanted electrical devices that are considered mechanical hearts. One is the ventricular assist device, which has been approved by the FDA. The other is the total artificial heart, which is still being developed.
More Information on Mechanical Heart: Heart Failure
- + Mechanical Heart Valve
-
- Mechanical Heart Valve
-
Also Known As: "Prosthetic Valve, Mechanical Valve, Artificial Heart Valve"
A valve used in valve replacement surgeries that is made from synthetic or 'man-made' materials. Another type of replacement valve is organic or biological, which is taken from the bodies of humans or animals.
More Information on Mechanical Heart Valve: Heart Valve
- + Mechanical Intestinal Obstruction
-
- Mechanical Intestinal Obstruction
-
Also Known As: "Simple Mechanical Intestinal Obstruction, Strangulating Obstruction"
The physical partial or complete blockage of the intestines, possibly due to a hernia, impacted feces or tumors.
More Information on Mechanical Intestinal Obstruction: Abdominal Pain
- + Mechanical PTMR
-
- Mechanical PTMR
-
"Mechanical PTMR" is more commonly referred to as "Percutaneous Myocardial Revascularization" in the medical community.
Percutaneous Myocardial Revascularization
Also Known As: "Percutaneous Transmyocardial Revascularization"
An experimental treatment for angina. A laser forms small holes or channels in the heart muscle (myocardium) of the left ventricle. Similar to Transmyocardial Revascularization (TMR), it uses a catheter rather than an incision to access the heart.
More Information on Percutaneous Myocardial Revascularization: Catheter Tests & Procedures
- + Mechanical Rotational Atherectomy
-
- Mechanical Rotational Atherectomy
-
"Mechanical Rotational Atherectomy" is more commonly referred to as "Atherectomy" in the medical community.
Atherectomy
Also Known As: "Coronary Atherectomy, Peripheral Atherectomy, Extractional Atherectomy, Rotational Atherectomy, Transluminal Extraction, Directional Atherectomy, Directional Coronary Atherectomy"
A broad name for a group of related procedures that remove exceptionally hard (calcified) plaque that has built up on the walls of the arteries.
More Information on Atherectomy: Catheter Tests & Procedures
- + Mechanical Valve
-
- Mechanical Valve
-
Also Known As: "Prosthetic Valve, Artificial Heart Valve"
A valve used in valve replacement surgeries that is made from synthetic or 'man-made' materials. Another type of replacement valve is organic or biological, which is taken from the bodies of humans or animals.
More Information on Mechanical Valve: Heart Valve
- + Mechlorethamine
-
- Mechlorethamine
-
"Mechlorethamine" is more commonly referred to as "Chlorambucil" in the medical community.
Chlorambucil
Also Known As: "Carmustine, Busulfan, Lomustine, Ifosfamide, Cyclophosphamide, Uracil Mustard, Melphalan"
A type of alkylating agent, which are a family of anticancer drugs that combines with a cancer cell's DNA to interferes with cell division.
More Information on Chlorambucil: Cancer Drug & Medication
- + Meckel Gruber Syndrome
-
- Meckel Gruber Syndrome
-
Also Known As: "Gruber Syndrome, Dysencephalia Splanchnocytica"
A genetic disorder present from birth that is fatal due to kidney failure. Along with the primary birth defects associated with this condition, patients may have one or more heart defects (e.g., septal defects, patent ductus arteriosus).
More Information on Meckel Gruber Syndrome: Pediatric Heart
- + Meckel's Diverticulum
-
- Meckel's Diverticulum
-
A birth defect where a small sac is present in the ileum.
More Information on Meckel's Diverticulum: Diverticulitis & Diverticulosis
- + Meconium Aspiration
-
- Meconium Aspiration
-
Occurs when meconium (fetal fecal matter) is present in the amniotic fluids and the infant breathes it in during the birthing process. Most common in post-term deliveries.
More Information on Meconium Aspiration: Newborn Care
- + MED
-
- MED
-
"MED" is more commonly referred to as "Epiphyseal Dysplasia" in the medical community.
Epiphyseal Dysplasia
Also Known As: "Fairbank Type Multiple Epiphyseal Dysplasia, Multiple Epiphyseal Dysplasia, Ribbing Type Multiple Epiphyseal Dysplasia"
A rare inherited disorder affecting the head of the long bones (epiphyses). It usually involves shortened bones in the legs, hands and feet. Common symptoms include pain, inflammation and stiffness in the joints, particularly of the legs and hips.
More Information on Epiphyseal Dysplasia: Bone Health
- + Medial Epicondylitis
-
- Medial Epicondylitis
-
"Medial Epicondylitis" is more commonly referred to as "Golfer Elbow" in the medical community.
Golfer Elbow
Repetitive stress injury that occurs when muscles and tendons in the elbow area are damaged. Pain may occur on the inside of the elbow when bending the wrist down. Activities such as racquetball also may cause the condition.
More Information on Golfer Elbow: Arm & Leg Pain
- + Medial Periostalgia
-
- Medial Periostalgia
-
"Medial Periostalgia" is more commonly referred to as "Shin Splints" in the medical community.
Shin Splints
Also Known As: "Shin Splints Syndrome, Medial Tibial Stress Syndrome, Medial Tibial Syndrome, Medial Tibial Shock Syndrome"
Pain in the front of the lower leg between the knee and the ankle caused by the tearing away of the anterior tibial muscle (muscle that runs along the shin bone) from the bone. It is commonly caused by over exercise with unconditioned muscles.
More Information on Shin Splints: Arm & Leg Pain
- + Medial Tibial Shock Syndrome
-
- Medial Tibial Shock Syndrome
-
"Medial Tibial Shock Syndrome" is more commonly referred to as "Shin Splints" in the medical community.
Shin Splints
Also Known As: "Shin Splints Syndrome, Medial Periostalgia, Medial Tibial Stress Syndrome, Medial Tibial Syndrome"
Pain in the front of the lower leg between the knee and the ankle caused by the tearing away of the anterior tibial muscle (muscle that runs along the shin bone) from the bone. It is commonly caused by over exercise with unconditioned muscles.
More Information on Shin Splints: Arm & Leg Pain
- + Medial Tibial Stress Syndrome
-
- Medial Tibial Stress Syndrome
-
"Medial Tibial Stress Syndrome" is more commonly referred to as "Shin Splints" in the medical community.
Shin Splints
Also Known As: "Shin Splints Syndrome, Medial Tibial Syndrome, Medial Tibial Shock Syndrome, Medial Periostalgia"
Pain in the front of the lower leg between the knee and the ankle caused by the tearing away of the anterior tibial muscle (muscle that runs along the shin bone) from the bone. It is commonly caused by over exercise with unconditioned muscles.
More Information on Shin Splints: Arm & Leg Pain
- + Medial Tibial Syndrome
-
- Medial Tibial Syndrome
-
"Medial Tibial Syndrome" is more commonly referred to as "Shin Splints" in the medical community.
Shin Splints
Also Known As: "Shin Splints Syndrome, Medial Tibial Shock Syndrome, Medial Periostalgia, Medial Tibial Stress Syndrome"
Pain in the front of the lower leg between the knee and the ankle caused by the tearing away of the anterior tibial muscle (muscle that runs along the shin bone) from the bone. It is commonly caused by over exercise with unconditioned muscles.
More Information on Shin Splints: Arm & Leg Pain
- + Median Sternotomy
-
- Median Sternotomy
-
"Median Sternotomy" is more commonly referred to as "Sternotomy" in the medical community.
Sternotomy
Also Known As: "Middle Sternotomy"
An incision made through the breast bone (sternum) in many open-heart surgeries.
- + Mediastinoscopy
-
- Mediastinoscopy
-
Also Known As: "Anterior Mediastinotomy, Anterior Mediastinoscopy, Mediastinoscopy with Biopsy, Mediastinotomy, Chamberlain Procedure, Mediastinotomy with Biopsy"
A test in which a small incision is made in the neck through which a mediastinoscope (lighted instrument) is inserted. This allows physicians to visually examine the lymph nodes and other chest structures, as well as take tissue samples (biopsy).
More Information on Mediastinoscopy: Lung & Chest Cancer
- + Mediastinoscopy with Biopsy
-
- Mediastinoscopy with Biopsy
-
Also Known As: "Anterior Mediastinotomy, Anterior Mediastinoscopy, Mediastinotomy, Chamberlain Procedure, Mediastinotomy with Biopsy"
A test in which a small incision is made in the neck through which a mediastinoscope (lighted instrument) is inserted. This allows physicians to visually examine the lymph nodes and other chest structures, as well as take tissue samples (biopsy).
More Information on Mediastinoscopy with Biopsy: Lung & Chest Cancer
- + Mediastinotomy
-
- Mediastinotomy
-
Also Known As: "Anterior Mediastinotomy, Anterior Mediastinoscopy, Chamberlain Procedure, Mediastinotomy with Biopsy, Mediastinoscopy with Biopsy"
A test in which a small incision is made in the neck through which a mediastinoscope (lighted instrument) is inserted. This allows physicians to visually examine the lymph nodes and other chest structures, as well as take tissue samples (biopsy).
More Information on Mediastinotomy: Lung & Chest Cancer
- + Mediastinotomy with Biopsy
-
- Mediastinotomy with Biopsy
-
Also Known As: "Anterior Mediastinotomy, Anterior Mediastinoscopy, Chamberlain Procedure, Mediastinoscopy with Biopsy, Mediastinotomy"
A test in which a small incision is made in the neck through which a mediastinoscope (lighted instrument) is inserted. This allows physicians to visually examine the lymph nodes and other chest structures, as well as take tissue samples (biopsy).
More Information on Mediastinotomy with Biopsy: Lung & Chest Cancer
- + Mediastinum
-
- Mediastinum
-
The space (or cavity) between two main portions of an organ. The term commonly refers to the mass located between the lungs: the heart and its blood vessels, and the trachea, esophagus, thymus, lymph nodes and connective tissue.
More Information on Mediastinum: Heart Basics
- + Medic Alert
-
- Medic Alert
-
A non-for-profit, membership organization and the leading U.S. emergency medical information service. MedicAlert saves lives by making vital patient information available to medical professionals via a 24-hour emergency response service.
- + Medical Abortion
-
- Medical Abortion
-
"Medical Abortion" is more commonly referred to as "Abortion Pill" in the medical community.
Abortion Pill
Also Known As: "RU486, Mifepristone, Nonsurgical Abortion"
An oral drug that terminates a pregnancy up to nine weeks after conception.
More Information on Abortion Pill: Pregnancy Basics
- + Medical DITI
-
- Medical DITI
-
Also Known As: "Digital Infrared Thermal Imaging, Clinical Medical Thermography, Medical Infrared Thermography"
A diagnostic tool that creates a digital display of temperature differences, which helps to determine areas of disease.
More Information on Medical DITI: Heart Imaging & Rhythm Tests
- + Medical Examination
-
- Medical Examination
-
"Medical Examination" is more commonly referred to as "Physical Examination" in the medical community.
Physical Examination
Also Known As: "Physical Evaluation"
The process of inspecting the body and its systems for the presence or absence of illness or injury.
More Information on Physical Examination: Healthcare Basics
- + Medical Family Tree
-
- Medical Family Tree
-
Also Known As: "Personal Medical History, Family Health Portrait, Family Medical History, Family Medical Record, Personal Medical Record, Medical Questionnaire"
Information about the past and present medical conditions of the patient and relatives (e.g., parents, grandparents, siblings). Patterns of illness in the patient's family can help the physician to diagnose and treat the patient.
More Information on Medical Family Tree: Healthcare Basics
- + Medical History
-
- Medical History
-
Also Known As: "Personal Medical History, Family Health Portrait, Family Medical History, Medical Questionnaire, Family Medical Record, Medical Family Tree, Personal Medical Record"
Information about the past and present medical conditions of the patient and relatives (e.g., parents, grandparents, siblings). Patterns of illness in the patient's family can help the physician to diagnose and treat the patient.
More Information on Medical History: Healthcare Basics
- + Medical Infrared Thermography
-
- Medical Infrared Thermography
-
Also Known As: "Digital Infrared Thermal Imaging, Clinical Medical Thermography, Medical DITI"
A diagnostic tool that creates a digital display of temperature differences, which helps to determine areas of disease.
More Information on Medical Infrared Thermography: Heart Imaging & Rhythm Tests
- + Medical Marijuana
-
- Medical Marijuana
-
"Medical Marijuana" is more commonly referred to as "Marijuana & Cancer" in the medical community.
Marijuana & Cancer
Dried flowers and leaves of the Cannabis plant that are smoked or chewed for euphoric effect. The most widely used illegal drug in the U.S., its medicinal use is legal in some states to relieve side effects of some cancer treatments.
More Information on Marijuana & Cancer: Chemo & Radiation Therapy
- + Medical Menopause
-
- Medical Menopause
-
The cessation of menstrual periods, either temporary or permanent, caused by the patient taking certain medications. Chemotherapy drugs used in the treatment of cancer can induce menopause in young women.
More Information on Medical Menopause: Menopause & HRT
- + Medical Nutrition Therapy
-
- Medical Nutrition Therapy
-
"Medical Nutrition Therapy" is more commonly referred to as "Nutrition Counseling" in the medical community.
Nutrition Counseling
Counseling with a registered dietician for optimal weight and blood sugar control in people with diabetes. Blood sugar control can reduce the risks of cardiovascular disease, kidney complications, blindness and amputations.
More Information on Nutrition Counseling: Diabetes Diet & Fitness
- + Medical Oncologist
-
- Medical Oncologist
-
"Medical Oncologist" is more commonly referred to as "Oncologist" in the medical community.
Oncologist
Also Known As: "Surgical Oncologist"
A physician who specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of cancer. Types include general adult (medical oncologist) or specialties in surgery (surgical oncologist), radiation therapy (radiation oncologist) or pediatrics (pediatric oncologist).
More Information on Oncologist: Cancer Basics
- + Medical Question
-
- Medical Question
-
"Medical Question" is more commonly referred to as "Questions for Your Cardiologist" in the medical community.
Questions for Your Cardiologist
Also Known As: "Health Question"
This article suggests questions to print out and bring with you to your next doctor appointment. If you don't feel comfortable asking some of these questions, you can just hand the list to your cardiologist to be sure that they are all addressed.
More Information on Questions for Your Cardiologist: Heart Basics
- + Medical Questionnaire
-
- Medical Questionnaire
-
Also Known As: "Personal Medical History, Family Health Portrait, Family Medical History, Family Medical Record, Medical Family Tree, Personal Medical Record"
Information about the past and present medical conditions of the patient and relatives (e.g., parents, grandparents, siblings). Patterns of illness in the patient's family can help the physician to diagnose and treat the patient.
More Information on Medical Questionnaire: Healthcare Basics
- + Medical Reserve Corps
-
- Medical Reserve Corps
-
Also Known As: "MRC"
A national program sponsored by the U.S. Office of the Surgeon General that helps communities organize groups of volunteers to assist with local public health initiatives and to respond during emergencies.
- + Medical Thermography
-
- Medical Thermography
-
Also Known As: "Digital Infrared Thermal Imaging, Clinical Medical Thermography, Medical Infrared Thermography, Medical DITI"
A diagnostic tool that creates a digital display of temperature differences, which helps to determine areas of disease.
More Information on Medical Thermography: Heart Imaging & Rhythm Tests
- + MedicAlert Foundation
-
- MedicAlert Foundation
-
Also Known As: "Medic Alert"
A non-for-profit, membership organization and the leading U.S. emergency medical information service. MedicAlert saves lives by making vital patient information available to medical professionals via a 24-hour emergency response service.
- + Medication Allergies
-
- Medication Allergies
-
"Medication Allergies" is more commonly referred to as "Drug Allergies" in the medical community.
Drug Allergies
Allergic response to a specific medication, affecting any tissue or organ. Drug allergies can trigger anaphylaxis, even in patients who do not initially show life-threatening symptoms.
More Information on Drug Allergies: Drug Allergies
- + Medication Delivery Tips for Children
-
- Medication Delivery Tips for Children
-
Getting a child at any age to take needed medications can present various challenges. However, there are many different approaches parents can try to make sure their children get the medications they need.
More Information on Medication Delivery Tips for Children: Medication & Children
- + Medication Management & Diabetes
-
- Medication Management & Diabetes
-
Many people with diabetes take a variety of medications throughout the day. Managing these medications to ensure they are taken at the right times and in the right manner can be a challenge. But there are many tips that can help.
More Information on Medication Management & Diabetes: Diabetes & Endocrine Drugs
- + Medication Overuse Headache
-
- Medication Overuse Headache
-
"Medication Overuse Headache" is more commonly referred to as "Analgesic Rebound Headaches" in the medical community.
Analgesic Rebound Headaches
A type of headache that results from daily or near daily use of prescription or over-the-counter pain medication. Complete discontinuation of the medication(s) is usually necessary to relieve the pain.
More Information on Analgesic Rebound Headaches: Headache & Migraine
- + Medication Withdrawal
-
- Medication Withdrawal
-
"Medication Withdrawal" is more commonly referred to as "Substance Withdrawal" in the medical community.
Substance Withdrawal
Also Known As: "Drug Withdrawal"
Physical and psychological symptoms that occur when a person suddenly quits using certain medications or recreational drugs. Gradually lowering dosage levels of some drugs, such as antidepressants, can help prevent symptoms.
More Information on Substance Withdrawal: Alcohol & Substance Abuse
- + Medications & Cancer Risk
-
- Medications & Cancer Risk
-
Some prescribed and over-the-counter medications may increase the risk of certain cancers. However, others (such as NSAIDs) may reduce risk for some cancers.
More Information on Medications & Cancer Risk: Cancer Risk Factors
- + Medications & Suicide Risk
-
- Medications & Suicide Risk
-
Some prescribed and over-the-counter medications may increase the risk of certain cancers. However, others (such as NSAIDs) may reduce risk for some cancers.
More Information on Medications & Suicide Risk: Suicide Information
- + Meditation Exercises
-
- Meditation Exercises
-
Also Known As: "Visualization Exercises"
This article discusses some basic meditation exercises that anyone can do to lower their stress levels and improve their health.
More Information on Meditation Exercises: Stress
- + Mediterranean Diet
-
- Mediterranean Diet
-
A nutritional model based on traditional dietary patterns of countries in the Mediterranean basin, particularly Italy, Greece and Spain. Foods in the diet are low in saturated fat and high in monounsaturated fat and dietary fiber.
More Information on Mediterranean Diet: Popular Diets
- + Medulla Oblongata
-
- Medulla Oblongata
-
The portion of the brain stem that connects to the spinal cord. It is involved in controlling digestion, breathing, heart rhythms and other autonomic functions.
More Information on Medulla Oblongata: Brain & Nerve Basics
- + Medullary Carcinoma
-
- Medullary Carcinoma
-
"Medullary Carcinoma" is more commonly referred to as "Breast Cancer" in the medical community.
Breast Cancer
Also Known As: "Inflammatory Breast Cancer"
Cancer that begins in the breast. About one woman out of eight will develop breast cancer, making it the most common malignant cancer in women. Breast cancer is divided into two types: invasive or noninvasive cancer.
More Information on Breast Cancer: Breast Cancer
- + Medullary Thyroid Carcinoma
-
- Medullary Thyroid Carcinoma
-
"Medullary Thyroid Carcinoma" is more commonly referred to as "Thyroid Cancers" in the medical community.
Thyroid Cancers
Also Known As: "Papillary Thyroid Cancers, Anaplastic Thyroid Cancers, Papillary Thyroid Carcinoma, Well Differentiated Thyroid Cancers, Follicular Thyroid Cancers"
Cancerous tumor or growth within the thyroid gland. It is the most common type of endocrine cancer.
More Information on Thyroid Cancers: Endocrine System Cancer
- + Medulloblastomas
-
- Medulloblastomas
-
Also Known As: "Neuroectodermal Tumors, Primitive Neuroectodermal Tumors, Supratentorial Primitive Neuroectodermal Tumors"
Rare type of brain tumor that appears to develop from primitive nerve cells that normally do not remain in the body after birth. They are usually found in children or young adults.
More Information on Medulloblastomas: Brain & Nerve Cancer
- + Megacolon
-
- Megacolon
-
A severely swollen and widened colon that may result from severe constipation.
More Information on Megacolon: IBS & Bowel Function
- + Megadoses
-
- Megadoses
-
Doses of a nutrient that are many times higher than the recommended amount. There is no evidence that this improves health. In fact, many nutrients are toxic in even moderate amounts.
- + Megaesophagus
-
- Megaesophagus
-
"Megaesophagus" is more commonly referred to as "Achalasia" in the medical community.
Achalasia
Also Known As: "Esophageal Aperistalsis, Cardiospasm"
A rare disorder where the muscle between the esophagus and the stomach does not relax or open enough to allow food to pass into the stomach.
- + Megalencephaly
-
- Megalencephaly
-
Also Known As: "Macrencephaly"
A condition present from birth in which the brain is abnormally large, heavy and not functioning properly. Prognosis depends on the underlying cause.
More Information on Megalencephaly: Pediatric Brain & Nerve
- + Megaloblastic Anemia
-
- Megaloblastic Anemia
-
Also Known As: "Vitamin B12 Deficiency Anemia, Folate Deficiency Anemia"
A blood disorder in which there is a deficiency of folate, vitamin B12 or both. This causes excess amounts of megaloblasts (immature red blood cells) in the blood. It can result from malnutrition or malabsorption. It is rare in people under age 60.
More Information on Megaloblastic Anemia: Anemia & Blood Disorders
- + Meglitinides
-
- Meglitinides
-
A class of antidiabetic agents used in the treatment of type 2 diabetes. They work by lowering the levels of glucose circulating in the body and may be used alone or in combination with other antidiabetics.
More Information on Meglitinides: Diabetes & Endocrine Drugs
- + Meige's Syndrome
-
- Meige's Syndrome
-
A type of dystonia (sustained muscle contractions leading to twisting movements) that involves the muscles of the eyes (blepharospasm), lips, jaws and tongue (oromandibular dystonia). It may also affect speech (spasmodic dysphonia).
More Information on Meige's Syndrome: Movement Disorders
- + Melancholia
-
- Melancholia
-
Term derived from the Greek word for black bile, it formerly was used to describe common depression. Today, it is used to refer to especially severe depression characterized by tearful sadness and irrational fears.
More Information on Melancholia: Depression & Bipolar
- + Melanin
-
- Melanin
-
A dark brown coloring produced by special cells found in the skin and hair. The cells are sensitive to sunlight and protect the body by absorbing ultraviolet radiation from the sun.
More Information on Melanin: Skin & Hair Basics
- + Melanocytes
-
- Melanocytes
-
A cell found in the skin, hair and eyes that produces a pigment called melanin which determines color.
More Information on Melanocytes: Skin & Hair Basics
- + Melanoma in Situ
-
- Melanoma in Situ
-
"Melanoma in Situ" is more commonly referred to as "Skin Cancer (Melanoma)" in the medical community.
Skin Cancer (Melanoma)
Also Known As: "Malignant Melanoma, Skin Melanoma, Multiple Melanoma, Melanoma Mole"
A form of skin cancer that begins in the cells that produce pigment. Melanoma usually begins in a mole. It is the most serious type of skin cancer.
More Information on Skin Cancer (Melanoma): Skin Cancer
- + Melanoma Mole
-
- Melanoma Mole
-
"Melanoma Mole" is more commonly referred to as "Skin Cancer (Melanoma)" in the medical community.
Skin Cancer (Melanoma)
Also Known As: "Malignant Melanoma, Skin Melanoma, Multiple Melanoma, Melanoma in Situ"
A form of skin cancer that begins in the cells that produce pigment. Melanoma usually begins in a mole. It is the most serious type of skin cancer.
More Information on Skin Cancer (Melanoma): Skin Cancer
- + Melanosis Lenticularis
-
- Melanosis Lenticularis
-
"Melanosis Lenticularis" is more commonly referred to as "Xeroderma Pigmentosum" in the medical community.
Xeroderma Pigmentosum
Also Known As: "XP, Kaposi Disease"
A rare degenerative disease involving sensitivity to light that develops in the first few years of life. The skin becomes dry, rough and wrinkled. It may also involve skin discoloration and growths. Symptoms are treated and sunlight must be avoided.
More Information on Xeroderma Pigmentosum: Skin & Hair Basics
- + Melasma
-
- Melasma
-
Also Known As: "Chloasma, Mask of Pregnancy"
A condition that involves brown patches on the neck that may appear during pregnancy. While it is not a harmful disease, it can severely affect cosmetic appearance. It usually fades after delivery.
More Information on Melasma: Skin Discoloration
- + Melena
-
- Melena
-
Black stool that may resemble tar caused by partially digested blood, generally due to bleeding in the stomach or beginning of the small intestine.
More Information on Melena: Digestive Health Basics
- + Melioidosis
-
- Melioidosis
-
Also Known As: "Burkholderia Pseudomallei, Whitmore Disease"
An infectious disease caused by the bacterium Burkholderia pseudomallei. It is clinically and pathologically similar to glanders disease. Transmission is by contact with contaminated soil and water
More Information on Melioidosis: Infectious Disease Basics
- + Melitose
-
- Melitose
-
"Melitose" is more commonly referred to as "Raffinose" in the medical community.
Raffinose
Also Known As: "Gossypose, Melitriose"
A trisaccharide found in many plants that breaks down into glucose, galactose and fructose.
More Information on Raffinose: Carbs & Sugars
- + Melitriose
-
- Melitriose
-
"Melitriose" is more commonly referred to as "Raffinose" in the medical community.
Raffinose
Also Known As: "Gossypose, Melitose"
A trisaccharide found in many plants that breaks down into glucose, galactose and fructose.
More Information on Raffinose: Carbs & Sugars
- + Melkersson Rosenthal Syndrome
-
- Melkersson Rosenthal Syndrome
-
A neurological disorder marked by facial paralysis, swelling of the face and lips, and the development of folds and furrows in the tongue. It often recurs intermittently and may become chronic.
More Information on Melkersson Rosenthal Syndrome: Movement Disorders
- + Melphalan
| |
